The Saharawi representative to Australia, also Ambassador in East Timor, Kamal Fadel, participated on Monday in the celebrations marking the 46th anniversary of Africa Day, organised in Canberra, the capital of Australia.

The African Heads of Missions in Australia organised a function to commemorate the foundation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) now the African Union.

The function was attended by Australias Foreign Minister, The Hon. Stephen Smith, members of the Australian Government, Senior officials of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Australia as well as members of the Federal Parliament.

The function was also attended by the Tanzanias Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr Bernard Membe, who is visiting Australia.

The Polisario representative to Australia met with many of those who attended the event.

The Australian Minister of Foreign Affairs delivered a speech during the function: http://www.foreignminister.gov.au/speeches/2009/090525_africa_day.htmlHe said “Tonight we commemorate the founding, 46 years ago, of modern-day African unity, the Organisation of African Unity, now the African Union. 30 of the then 32 independent African states gathered to sign the Organisations founding charter in Addis Ababa.

Decolonisation was nearing its end. African leaders made a commitment to work together towards a brighter future for the whole of their continent….

Mr. Smith concluded his speech by reiterating Australias commitment to strengthen links with Africa and added “in celebrating Africas achievements today we also look to the future and the greater role that Africa is destined to play on the world stage. Australia is determined to work with Africa as a friend and partner over the coming years and decades. We are confident our joint efforts to deepen our engagement will be to the benefit of both our continents. I congratulate you again on Africa Day.”

Africa Day is the annual commemoration on May 25 of the 1963 founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU). May 25th is the official day of the African Union.